Maiduguri (Nigeria): The Nigerian Army on Thursday trained troops from the Theatre Command, Maiduguri in Borno on leadership and the effects of drug and substance abuse in operations.
The training with the theme “Transformational Leadership and Nigerian Army Operational Effectiveness In A Joint And Multi-Agency Environment” was declared open by Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
Oluyede, who is the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar said leadership is a critical component of combat power and remains central to the success of every military operation.
He tasked participants to properly utilise what they learn from the training organised by the Army Headquarters, Department of Army Transformation and Innovation for maximum results.
Oluyede tasked them on the dangers of drug and substance abuse on combat readiness highlighted during the training, and lauded its inclusion in the training.
Earlier, the head of the Transformation and Innovation department, Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai expressed concern over drug abuse-related issues among the troops, saying the issue was undermining effectiveness in combat readiness.
Abai, who Maj.-Gen represented. Simyimah Nicodamus said the programme was designed to enhance leadership efforts, institutionalise mentorship and inspire junior and mid-cadre commanders to embrace efficiency in military operations.
He urges participants to put their best effort into the prepared packages to appreciate the intended benefits fully.
According to him, the programme will afford all present the opportunity to freely interact, discuss and share ideas in the process of raising a discerning and competent junior and mid-level commanders in the Nigerian Army.
“I acknowledge the fact that you, as field commanders, have an essential role to play in ensuring that troops imbibe the appropriate values and expected professional competence required for a successful career in the Nigerian Army.
“I therefore urge you all to contribute meaningfully during this Seminar, bearing in mind that every little effort in raising competent leaders for the Nigerian Army is a path towards achieving the Nigerian Army’s operational objectives.